The ambassadors of Mali and Algeria, have returned to their respective posts, as announced by the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) on Sunday

Both ambassadors were recalled for consultations in December 2023 due to diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

The Algerian ambassador, El Haoues Riache, returned to Bamako, and Mali reinstated its ambassador in Algiers on January 7, 2024.

The AES sees these returns as a positive development, indicating a normalization of diplomatic relations. The statement highlights that Algeria has recognized the principles of collaboration with Mali, emphasizing respect for Mali’s sovereignty and strategic choices.

The tensions arose when Bamako protested against high-level meetings in Algeria without Malian involvement, leading to reciprocal ambassador recalls and diplomatic disputes.